Multiquip Introduces First Hydrogen Fuel Light Tower

Jan 12, 2011

Multiquip introduced the first light tower powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, part of a planned series of hydrogen-fuel-cell-powered products, at World of Concrete. The light tower is environmentally friendly, fuel efficient and virtually pollution free, allowing it to be operated indoors. It can be operated for up to 50 hours at a noise level of 43 decibels at 23 feet.

The light tower uses plasma light technology, which is filament-free, producing a clean, natural light. The plasma light bulb produces 22,000 lumens with extremely high efficiency, consuming only 255 watts with a life expectancy of up to 50,000 hours.

"The implications of the product's technology beyond lighting are tremendous," said Torsten Erbel, vice president product management, engineering and customer support for Multiquip. "It's reliable due to the lack of moving parts; durable; does not contaminate due to fuel spills; there is very low maintenance; and it is user friendly, using an automotive-style fuel nozzle."

Using a process discovered more than 150 years ago, fuel cells began supplying electric power for spacecraft in the 1960s and were pursued for commercial use in the 1970s. Fuel cells are an alternative to the internal combustion engine with an energy efficiency of more than 50%. Internal combustion engines, on average, convert only 20% of fuel BTU to the desired work.

Prototypes of the light tower have been and will be used by the California Department of Transportation, film and entertainment companies at high profile media events and by NASA during the upcoming shuttle launch.

The Multiquip hydrogen-powered light tower will be on display at World of Concrete in Las Vegas, January 18-21, 2011, in booth # C4813.

Product will be available in Q2 2011. Pricing for the units will be provided by quote only, due to the availability of energy and tax credits, which vary from state-to-state, as well as multiple configuration options.

Founded in 1973, Multiquip is one of the largest, most diversified manufacturers and suppliers of products and solutions for the construction, telecom, government, non-commercial, entertainment, and oil and gas exploration markets. Multiquip's product portfolio encompasses light to medium construction equipment, power generators and lighting. Servicing customers worldwide, Multiquip distributes its products in more than 70 countries through thousands of authorized distribution partners. For more information, visit http://www.multiquip.com/.